What Is the Best Treatment for Acne Scars?

Acne scars can be extremely frustrating, and it can be hard to know what the best treatment for acne scars is. 

There are many different types of acne, many different kinds of acne scars, and thus many different kinds of acne scar treatments. 

In this comprehensive guide we will outline the many different acne scar treatments available and help you find the best option for you. 

Types of Acne Scars 

Acne scars are usually classified into atrophic (depressed) scars and hypertrophic (raised) scars. 

1.        Atrophic (depressed) scars  

These occur when there is a loss of tissue during the healing process. They are the most common type of acne scars and are further divided into:

• Ice Pick Scars:  Small, deep, and narrow pits that look like tiny holes in the skin. Due to their depth, these are the most difficult to treat.

• Boxcar Scars: Broad, square or rectangular depressions with well-defined edges commonly on the cheeks and temples.

• Rolling scars: Wavy or undulating depressions with sloping edges which give the skin a rough, uneven texture

2.        Hypertrophic & Keloid (Raised) Scars 

These result from excessive collagen during healing. These can be further divided into:

• Hypertrophic scars: Thick, raised scars that stay within the boundary of the original acne lesion. They can be found most commonly on the chest, shoulders, and back.

• Keloid Scars: Similar to hypertrophic scars but grow beyond the original acne site. Can be itchy or painful and often darker than surrounding skin. 

• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: Appear as dark spots after acne heals, but they are not scars. They fade over time but can take months or years without treatment.

Treatment Options for Acne Scars

Laser

1.        MOXI Laser

MOXI is a laser treatment that delivers controlled energy to the skin, stimulating collagen production and promoting cellular renewal. Amongst other benefits, the laser targets acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

The laser breaks down scar tissue and creates controlled micro-injuries. This stimulates the body’s natural healing response and thus the production of collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin help to fill in the depressed (atrophic) areas and leads to a smoother, more even skin tone.

However, it is important to note that MOXI may not be suitable for individuals who have active acne breakouts or open wounds in the treatment area.

2.        BBL Hero

Forever Clear BBL destroys acne-causing bacteria and reduced inflammation and redness, using a combination of blue, yellow and infrared light. In areas which are discoloured from scars, the laser can stimulate collagen production, helping to fade dark spots and improve skin texture. The skin will look clearer and more even toned.

Chemical Peels 

Chemical Facial Peels are a highly effective solution for managing acne. They can unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and control excess oil production, resulting in a clearer complexion and reduced breakouts. For acne scars, the chemical peels can lighten the appearance of dark spots and fade pigmentation, leaving you with a more even skin tone and making scars less noticeable.

 They involve the application of a chemical solution to the skin, which exfoliates the outermost layer, promoting cell turnover and revealing a fresh, youthful complexion. The peels smooth out the uneven texture left behind by acne scars.

 Chemical peels are particularly effective for treating superficial scars like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots). For more severe scars, such as pitted or icepick scars, deeper peels may help to improve the texture. However, further treatments may be needed for the best results.

Microneedling

 Microneedling is a state-of-the-art cosmetic treatment that utilises advanced microneedling technology to stimulate the body’s natural collagen production. The procedure creates controlled micro-injuries to the skin which trigger the natural healing response. As a result, new collagen and elastin fibers are produced, leading to firmer, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin.

 This treatment is well suited to atrophic scars as the collagen is in the depressed areas.

 Microneedling can be paired with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment for rolling scars to help smooth out the skin surface. PRP uses your own blood which is rich in growth factors and proteins. When applied to the skin and stimulated with microneedling treatment, collagen is created, and the skin can renew. 

Dermal Fillers

Dermal Fillers can be injected into the scars to lift them temporarily. These are an effective solution for depressed scars, particularly rolling and boxcar scars.

The hyaluronic acid- based fillers are injected under the skin to life the depressed areas.

Dermal fillers can be used in combination with other treatments, such as microneedling or laser therapy, for more comprehensive scar reduction.

Topical Treatments 

These work well for Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) (Dark Marks, Not True Scars):

• Retinoids - Promotes skin turnover 

• Vitamin C – Brightens skin and reduces pigmentation

• Azelaic Acid – Reduces dark spots and inflammation 

• Niacinamide – Helps fade pigmentation 

• Sunscreen (SPF 30 – 50+) – Essential to prevent pigmentation from worsening.   

Best Overall Treatment Approach 

• For severe scars – Laser resurfacing  + Fillers

• For mild to moderate scars – Microneedling + Chemical peels 

• For pigmentation issues – Topical treatments + Chemical Peels + Laser 

Best Treatment for Faster Results 

• Laser – Best for overall acne scar improvement.

• Microneedling with PRP – Effective with minimal downtime. 

• Chemical Peels – Great for pigmentation and mild scarring. 

• Dermal Fillers – Instant results for depressed scars. 

If you’re interested in acne scar treatments, Dr Ed Robinson offers a comprehensive consultation to find the best treatment option for you. Multiple treatments might be required for optimal results.

Dr. Ed has clinics in Hale, near Manchester, and London’s Harley Street.